MB&F and maison caran d’ache's rocket astrograph writing instrument

the horological laboratory MB&F, together with maison caran d’ache, have combined expertise to create the rocket-like ‘astrograph’ writing instrument. originally conceptualized by MB&F founder maximillian büsser, the maison enthusiastically embraced the timepiece creator’s project and took to making the space odyssey adventure a reality. the imaginative and exceptionally-performing pen highlights this artistic union, where limitless creativity, respect for traditions, impeccable quality and swiss made were all key values for the brands.

the rocket writing instrument ready for take-off on the launch-pad box
all images courtesy of MB&F

reminding us of our childhood dreams, the MB&F and maison caran d’ache ‘astrograph’ features a fluid, curved body that is accentuated by a chequered pattern. its rocket-shaped design holds ingenious details in store. this includes the miniature levering entry door, which in turn, activates the lowering of three stabilizer legs. with these deployed, the ‘astrograph’ can be set ready for take-off, or in reality, for its 18-carat gold nib to glide across the paper. with perfectly balanced proportions, the fountain pen is extremely comfortable in the hand.

the rhodium-plated and magnetized astronaut figurine can attach to any part of the instrument

as a result of four years of discussions and a whole year just to develop the final model, the MB&F ‘astrograph’ is a piece of technical innovation. in total, it comprises of 99 different components, including a launch-pad box and magnetic astronaut figurine, meaning it takes more than 500 operations to produce each complex writing instrument. the pen itself, is available in three finishes: high-gloss rhodium, sandblasted matte rhodium or anthracite ruthenium.

the instrument unscrews to reveal a fountain pen inside the fuselage